Feckler, Alexander
- Department of Aquatic Sciences and Assessment, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
Review article2015Peer reviewed
Feckler, Alexander; Kahlert, Maria; Bundschuh, Mirco
Biofilms play a fundamental ecological role in freshwater ecosystems as they contribute to ecosystem function(s) such as autotrophic primary production, organic matter decomposition and the bottom-up directed energy transfer in the food web. The present focused review summarizes the scientific knowledge on how the roles of autotrophic and heterotrophic biofilms can be modulated as a response to chemical (i.e., pesticide) stress. We discuss how horizontal effects (alterations in the structure of biofilms) can affect the physiological fitness and life history strategy of the next trophic level (vertical effects), namely primary consumers. Since the literature indicates that heterotrophic biofilms are currently at risk as a result of pesticide stress, the protectiveness of environmental risk assessment in Europe as well as North America is questioned. By briefly outlining substantial knowledge gaps, we provide ideas on how the identified uncertainties may be empirically addressed.
Trophic interaction; Ecosystem function; Indirect effects; Microbial community composition; Leaf litter breakdown
Bulletin of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology
2015, Volume: 95, number: 4, pages: 421-427
Publisher: SPRINGER
SDG6 Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all
Other Biological Topics
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00128-015-1642-1
https://res.slu.se/id/publ/69536